I need a Javascript (jQuery) method to display a spinning indicator during prolonged operations. How can I implement this effect, and what is the common name for it?
Considering my experience with asynchronous operations, I typically implement this by overlaying a dedicated div containing an animated spinner, often referred to as a “loading indicator” or simply a “spinner.” The approach involves initially hiding the indicator on page load, then using jQuery to fade in the div as the long operation starts, and fading it out once complete. This method gracefully handles the transition and keeps the user informed of background processing without interfering with the main interface.
I have used a similar setup where the spinner is integrated with jQuery’s ajaxStart and ajaxStop events, which automatically handles its visibility as asynchronous operations begin and end. This not only keeps the user informed but also prevents unintended interactions with the interface during processing. The concept is generally recognized as a loading indicator or spinner. In practice, incorporating subtle fade transitions contributes to a smoother experience, making it a dependable solution in projects where background operations might delay interface responsiveness.